Jet Boat Driver

Fiordland Jet Limited; Te Anau; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Fiordland Jet Limited seeks a Commercial Jetboat Driver to operate on scheduled tours in Te Anau, delivering safe, high-quality guest experiences on the Upper Waiau River and Lake Manapouri.

The role requires current NZ Jet Boat Driver Licence, full NZ driver licence, and strong customer service with safety focus. On-site full-time position with training and team support in Fiordland's outdoor tourism environment.

Qualifications

• Must have current NZ Commercial Jet Boat Driver (River) Licence.
• Full, clean NZ driver licence with good driving record.
• Experience driving commercial jetboats in a passenger-tourism setting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate commercial jetboats on Upper Waiau River and Lake Manapouri.
• Perform pre- and post-trip vessel checks and safety equipment checks.
• Monitor conditions and make safety decisions for passengers.
• Provide engaging commentary about Fiordland and local points of interest.
• Assist guests with boarding, safety procedures, and guest relations.
• Report maintenance or safety issues promptly and coordinate with team.

Skills

Commercial jetboat driving experience

Jetboat handling

Guest service

Safety awareness

Education

NZ Commercial Jet Boat Driver Licence (River)

NZ Driver Licence (full, clean)

First Aid / water safety training

Job description

Commercial Jetboat Driver – Te Anau

The Role

We are looking for an experienced and professional Commercial Jetboat Driver to join our team in Te Anau.

This is a full-time, on-site position operating commercial jetboats on scheduled tours along the Upper Waiau River and Lake Manapouri. The role combines safe and competent jetboat operation with exceptional guest service, engaging commentary, and a genuine passion for the Fiordland environment.

The successful applicant will be responsible for ensuring every tour is operated safely, professionally, and in accordance with company procedures and New Zealand maritime requirements, while providing guests with a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate commercial jetboats on the Upper Waiau River and Lake Manapouri.
• Conduct thorough pre- and post-trip vessel and equipment checks.
• Monitor river, water, weather, and operating conditions and make appropriate decisions to ensure passenger safety.
• Follow all company safety procedures, operational requirements, and relevant Maritime NZ regulations.
• Deliver engaging and informative commentary covering Fiordland's natural environment, wildlife, history, and local points of interest.
• Provide friendly, professional, and confident customer service throughout the guest experience.
• Assist passengers with boarding, disembarking, and safety procedures.
• Answer guest questions and ensure passengers feel comfortable and well looked after throughout the tour.
• Maintain a high standard of boat, equipment, and operational area cleanliness and presentation.
• Report any maintenance, safety, or operational issues promptly.
• Assist with guest check-ins, bookings, and other day-to-day operational duties when required.
• Work collaboratively with the wider team to ensure smooth and efficient daily operations.
• Participate in ongoing training, competency assessments, and emergency procedures.
• Represent the company professionally and contribute to maintaining consistently high standards of safety and guest experience.

Qualifications & Experience

The successful applicant will ideally have:

• A current New Zealand Commercial Jet Boat Driver (River) Licence.
• A full, clean New Zealand driver licence and good driving record.
• Previous commercial jetboat driving experience, preferably in a passenger tourism environment.
• Strong jetboat handling skills and the ability to confidently assess changing river and weather conditions.
• A sound understanding of passenger safety, river navigation, risk management, and commercial operating procedures.
• The ability to meet company operational competency requirements and participate in ongoing driver training and assessments.
• Excellent verbal communication skills and the ability to deliver engaging, entertaining, and informative commentary.
• Previous experience in the New Zealand tourism industry is advantageous.
• Knowledge of, or a genuine interest in, Fiordland's natural environment, wildlife, local history, and tourism industry.
• Current First Aid and relevant water safety training are advantageous.
• A willingness and ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, public holidays, and during peak tourism periods.
• The physical ability to assist passengers, handle equipment, and carry out routine vessel and operational duties.

About You

You will be someone who:

• Puts safety first and takes pride in operating to a high professional standard.
• Is confident, capable, and responsible on the water.
• Remains calm and professional when conditions or situations change.
• Enjoys working with people and providing excellent customer service.
• Is a confident and engaging communicator.
• Takes pride in maintaining boats and equipment.
• Is reliable, punctual, and well presented.
• Works well independently while being a positive and supportive member of a team.
• Has a genuine appreciation for Fiordland and the outdoor tourism environment.
• Takes pride in creating memorable experiences for visitors.

What We Offer

• A full-time position based in Te Anau.
• The opportunity to work and operate jetboats in the spectacular Fiordland environment.
• A varied role combining commercial jetboat driving, guest interaction, and tourism.
• A supportive team environment.
• Ongoing training and competency development.
• The opportunity to be part of a professional and established Fiordland tourism operation.